QPR have also been linked with Cole, but manager Harry Redknapp told BBC Radio 5 live he was resigned to missing out.

"I love Joe," he said. "I signed him when he was 11 years old at West Ham and I spoke to him. He was keen to come and he is a great lad.

"He would be great around the place - he is a great player - but West Ham came in at the last moment and it was difficult because West Ham is his club and you will always associate Joe with them.

"That is where he started out. The fans will love having him back there and I wish him all the best because he is a fantastic boy."

Heading out of West Ham is Benayoun, whose has been ended by a knee injury after just six appearances.

The 32-year-old Israel international is expected to return to fitness in the next two weeks and has attracted interest from Southampton, Fulham and Wigan, but Chelsea are yet to receive any formal offers.